Tuesday, August 30, 2005

Summertime?

Yes, in theory, but you’d be forgiven for thinking it was late October rather than August based on the recent weather. Mind you, I’m not complaining. I’ve always been more of the jacket and jeans sort anyway!

It always surprises me when I think about it, but sure enough I’ve been living in the UK for well over two years now. So where have you travelled being that you can get to mainland Europe so easily and cheaply, I’m asked. Um...

While I’ve managed to cover a lot of terrain within the UK itself (to the point where I’ve seen a lot more than many of my friends here), I’ve been embarrassingly short of mainland European travel adventures. Partially in response to that, and partially to placate Fiona who really did deserve a holiday in the sun, we recently spent a week over in Italy. Shall get the story and pics up soonish.

While on the topic of travel within the UK, last weekend a bunch of us headed up to Glencoe to get a few Munros under our collective belts. An always brilliant night at the Clachaig Inn on Friday, and with glorious sunshine greeting us on the Saturday morning we managed to bag two Munro tops (subsidiary summit to a Munro) and two Munros proper, including Bidean nam Bian. I didn’t bring my camera, so you’ll have to take my word for it.

We attempted Ben Nevis on Sunday, but after 5 hours climbing the alternate (and trickier) back route, the weather turned in a most nasty way. A strong and consistent rain, followed by fog and then a cold wind ensured we were soaked and freezing and couldn’t see the way forward. As frustrating as it was, the safe decision was made to turn back the way we had come. Always respect the mountain! Nevis will be conquered another day...

And a big congratulations to my cousin Jason who got married this past weekend.